Parking Lot Accidents

Causes of parking lot accidents

With so many vehicles in one space, it’s no wonder the risk of collision is high. According to a National Safety Council (NSC) poll, as many as 66% of polled drivers admitted to participating in distracted driving behavior while going through a parking lot. This might include talking on the phone, texting, programming GPS systems, and using social media. However, being distracted is not the only cause. Other common causes include the following:

• Poor lighting
• Snow and ice
• Water puddles
• Potholes or cracks
• Inadequate signage
• Speeding 

Types of injuries from parking lot accidents

Just like with any accident, injuries from a parking lot accident can vary from very minor to severe, depending on the circumstances. For example, a slip and fall accident may cause serious injuries to one person and not affect another at all. The same is true of other types of accidents as well. Some common parking lot accident injuries are:

• Whiplash
• Bruises
• Fractures
• Muscle strains
• Concussions

Parking lot accidents can be just as severe as crashes on roadways. Someone speeding through a parking lot could strike a pedestrian. Or someone not paying attention could collide with another car or cement structure. Distractions are especially dangerous when speeding is involved.

How to avoid parking lot accidents

1. Slow down: Many parking lot accidents occur because drivers are in a hurry. By driving at a safe speed (usually posted), you’ll have more time to react and avoid collisions. This also applies to pedestrians. The leading cause of injury-related death in senior citizens is falling. So pedestrians need to slow down and pay attention as well.

2. Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye out for other vehicles, pedestrians, traffic signs, and any other obstacles that may be in your way.

3. Use your signals: Using your turn signals is just as important in a parking lot as it is on the road. It lets other drivers and pedestrians know where you’re going and can help prevent collisions.

4. Follow the rules: Parking lots usually have posted speed limits, stop signs, and other traffic rules. Be sure to follow these rules to avoid accidents and tickets.

5. Park in safe areas: Look for well-lit areas that are away from other vehicles if possible. This will reduce the risk of your vehicle being hit by another driver.

6. Avoid distractions: Just like driving on the road, distractions can be dangerous in a parking lot. Avoid using your phone or doing anything else that takes your attention away from your driving.

7. Be a defensive driver: Being a defensive driver means anticipating the actions of others and being prepared to react. In a parking lot, this might mean yielding to a driver who isn’t paying attention or slowing down when approaching a blind corner.

What to do if you’ve been injured in a parking lot accident

If you’ve been injured in a parking lot accident, it’s important to know what steps to take to protect yourself and get the help you need. 

1. Stay calm and check for injuries: The first thing to do after a parking lot accident is to stay calm and check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately.

2. Move to a safe location: If it’s safe to do so, move yourself and your vehicle to a safe location out of the flow of traffic. This will help prevent additional accidents or injuries.

3. Call the police: Even if the accident is minor, it’s important to call the police and report the accident. This will help with insurance claims and legal issues later on. If it’s a private parking lot, the police may not be able to assist you, but you will at least be able to say you attempted to report it.

4. Exchange information: Exchange contact and insurance information with any other drivers or pedestrians involved in the accident. This should include their name, phone number, email address, insurance company, and policy number.

5. Collect evidence: Take photos of the damage to both vehicles and any other property that was damaged in the accident. Also, take photos of anything that might have contributed to the accident, such as ice or puddles. This can help with insurance claims and legal issues later on.

6. Contact your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. They can provide guidance on how to proceed and what information to provide.

7. Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, it’s important to seek medical attention if you experience any impact. Some injuries may not present symptoms right away, and getting checked out by a medical professional can ensure that any injuries are properly diagnosed and treated.

8. Consider getting legal help: If you’ve been injured in an accident, it’s a good idea to consult with a personal injury lawyer. They can help you understand your legal options and pursue compensation for your injuries and other damages.

By following these steps after a parking lot accident, you can protect yourself and your rights and ensure that any injuries are properly addressed.

When to Contact a Personal Injury Attorney

If you’ve been injured in a parking lot accident due to the negligence of another driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and other damages. Pursuing legal action can also help hold the responsible party accountable for their actions. 

Examples of damages that may be recovered include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. If someone you love was killed in an accident, you may also be able to pursue a wrongful death suit.

It’s important to pursue legal action as soon as possible after an accident to ensure that you meet any deadlines for filing a claim or lawsuit. An experienced car accident lawyer can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the process. While this type of thing can seem intimidating, it can provide you with the financial support and closure you need to move forward after an accident.

Citations:

Distraction Can Often Cause Parking Lot Injuries. (2023).

Distracted Driving Public Opinion Poll. (2016).

10 Key Defensive Driving Techniques You Need to Know. (2021).